C2 of C3: Command and Control of Command, Control, Communication Systems.

The Armys ongoing acquisition of modernized Command and Control Communications C3 Systems portends a quantum leap in present capabilities. Tremendously expensive, the effort represents a dramatic shift from past procurement policies inasmuch as it recognizes the need for a systemic, interactive C3 network that will not only support the Armys Air Land Battle doctrine, but also the C3 needs of Joint andor Combined operations. While the acquisition effort is laudable, the author perceives a weakness in the Armys ability to adequately manage these new-found resources. Simply put, the capabilities and complexity of existing and soon-to-be fielded systems outstrip the antiquated management techniques used for controlling these vital resources. In order to meet this challenge the author offers a conceptual approach for harnessing our C3 systems. Key to this approach is the need to accurately recognize the problem. In order to function properly, the new systems must be engineered and installed to meet very precise and exacting requirements--a need exacerbated by the trend towards increased interconnectivity and interdependence of disparate systems. The answer, therefore, lies in management systems which acknowledge and address this critical need.